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NZ Plants

Dracophyllum latifolium - neinei

Heath family: Ericaceae

Dracophyllum latifolium is a small tree with slender branches, ofen candelabra-like in older specimens. The broad, leathery leaves are crowded at the tips of branches with their sheath bases overlapping and are downwardly curved with small teeth. It is a genus of more than 60 species with 40 found in New Zealand ranging from small trees to alpine cushion plants. The name 'Dracophyllum' (dragon-leaf) refers to the almost prehistoric appearance of these plants.
An endemic species found in open forests in the upper half of the North Island.
 

Vegetative characteristics

Reproductive characteristics

Plant form: small tree up to 6 m

Arrangement of parts: symmetric
 

Flower size: 2-3 mm diam.

Leaf form: undivided, linear

Sepals: 5

Leaf size: 25-60 cm

Petals: 5

Leaf arrangement: singly, overlapping on stem

Sexuality: bisexual

Leaf attachment: sheath

Stamens: 5

Leaf margin: toothed

Ovary: above petals

Leaf surface: hairless

Fruit: dry


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